Become enchanted by the storied 135 East 19th Street townhouse. On the market for the first time in 50 years, the home boasts a lush garden and an incredible wine cellar.
Originally rooted in Amsterdam in the 17th century, this magnificent townhouse embarked on an epic journey across the Atlantic and found its current home on the Upper West Side in 1845. The property underwent a grand transformation by English architect Frederick J. Sterner in 1910, earning the title “The Joseph B. Thomas House.” The house’s namesake, a sugar industry tycoon, was the fortune behind its opulent transformation. Today, this storied abode is still steeped in the legacy of a world-famous fashion designer and humanitarian, who hosted the city’s most elite gatherings within its historic walls.
From the outside, this townhouse is nothing short of a jaw-dropping fantasy. Stained-glass windows twinkle, decorative stone inlays define its façade, and an ornate roofline makes it the talk of the block. Step inside, and you’ll find four stories and nearly 7,000 square feet of interior luxury, with the grandeur of a bygone era preserved in every nook and cranny.
The entrance foyer sets the stage with its stunning Flemish pattern stone floor, but the real showstopper is the “Italian Room.” Designed by the architect, it boasts a massive barrel-vaulted ceiling, intricate filigree plasterwork, wood-paneled walls, and an imposing stone fireplace.
Beyond the “Italian Room,” you’ll discover a lush garden with a working fountain, reminiscent of a crystal palace, under a glass solarium roof. Descend a special staircase, and you’ll find an incredible wine cellar and a tasting room fit for a bacchanal. The dining room exudes European charm, with rich woodwork adorning the walls, perfect for intimate gatherings or grand dinner parties.
As you ascend the ornately carved winding staircase, the possibilities are endless. Currently featuring six bedrooms, six bathrooms, a chef’s kitchen, a dining room prep kitchen, a dumbwaiter, two staircases, and a laundry center, this remarkable townhouse is ready to captivate a new owner’s imagination. Get ready to live in the lap of historic luxury, right in the heart of Manhattan.
Photography by Russ Ross Photography, Inc.
All photos belong to the listing agency.
Photography: Amanda Archibald Small spaces don't have to sacrifice style. These four apartments prove that…
We believe every home has a story, and we want to hear yours! Homeworthy's digital…
Bring the force behind Homeworthy’s most-watched home tour into your own project.
Discover How to Build a Home Filled with Character, Charm, and Stories Worth Telling
From Homeworthy-featured designers to style inspiration, here's a roundup of books our editors have their…